We have finally reached the point where we can put together our NBA playoff bracket. Yes, the playoffs are upon us, so it is time for everyone to put their head above the water and make some predictions.
Now, making predictions is a tough gig. If it was easy, we would all be rich. But everyone has had enough time now to gauge who they think can go all the way in the postseason. This is where the prizes get handed out, where new stars emerge and proven winners enhance their credentials. Let’s take a look at how this year’s playoffs are shaping up.
Eastern Conference: Milwaukee Bucks (3) vs. Indiana Pacers (6)
It is really hard to know what to make of these Bucks. Since firing Adrian Griffin at the half way point of the season, the team has gone 19-20. Star player Giannis Antetokounmpo missed the final three games of the season due to injury, and the defense looks pretty lousy. In other worrying news, they went 1-4 against the Pacers this season, so I’m not sure they will be happy they will be facing them in the first round.
If Antetokounmpo, I think this will be a competitive series, he makes that much of a difference. However, with him coming off an injury and perhaps taking his time to get back to full fitness, I’m going with the Pacers.
Bucks: -162
Pacers: +136
Eastern Conference: Cleveland Cavaliers (4) vs. Orlando Magic (5)
The Magic absolutely destroyed the Bucks in the final game of the season meaning they didn’t participate in the play-in tournament and will now take on a Cavs team that stuttered over the line. The Cavaliers went 13-18 in their final 31 games and many observers feel another first round exit is on the cards. If that does happen, the summer will be full of rumors.
But, I’m going with the Cavs in this one.
Cavaliiers -195
Magic +165
Western Conference: Minnesota Timberwolves (3) vs. Phoenix Suns (6)
These two will know all about each other, having faced off on the final day of the regular season. In that game, the Suns dominated with a 125-106 victory over the Timberwolves. That matchup was a great example of an excellent offense overcoming a great defense, but it is a different ballgame in the playoffs when the pressure is ramped up.
The Suns suffered badly with injuries during the season, but all of their stars have returned and they look relatively healthy going into this series.
I’m going with the Suns
Suns -115
Timberwolves +105
Western Conference: Los Angeles Clippers (4) vs. Dallas Mavericks (5)
Luka Dončić will be looking for revenge over the Clippers, having lost both of his playoff series to them, but nobody is blaming him for that. His stats in 13 postseason appearances against L.A are pretty impressive, but when you consider the stage and opposition, it highlights the truly elite talent he is.
I feel like he is going to excel in this series and make it third time lucky. Mavs to win.
Clippers -132
Mavericks +112
*All odds provided by FanDuel and correct at time of writing
